LEGENDARY Cherries frontman Steve Fletcher still has a major role to play at the Seward Stadium.

That was the view from manager Lee Bradbury after the veteran striker had rolled back the years with a dramatic injury-time equaliser in the 2-2 draw at Walsall on Saturday.

Fletcher has been restricted to just four starts and 12 substitute appearances for Cherries in his 19th season with the club.

But the 39-year-old demonstrated his qualities when he arrived from the bench to score his first goal of the season at the Bescot Stadium.

Cherries’ record appearance-maker is now aiming to play his part in the club’s pursuit of a League One play-off place.

He faces competition from first-choice forwards Wes Thomas and Michael Symes, as well as fellow frontmen Charlie Sheringham, Lyle Taylor and Jayden Stockley.

Boss Bradbury has also made no secret of his desire to strengthen his attacking options by signing a striker from the Championship during the January transfer window. But he still thinks Fletcher has plenty to offer.

Speaking after Fletcher’s header salvaged a point at Walsall, Bradbury told the Daily Echo: “That is what Fletch can do. He adds a different dimension and he causes teams problems.

“If you put the ball in the box in the right areas, he will score. At the right times, Fletch is going to be massive for us. Being a senior pro and having been at the club for a long time, I feel that he is an important part of the squad.”